Michael Saunders Trade Rumors: Latest News, Speculation on Blue Jays OF

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Michael Saunders has been mentioned in trade talks that would send him to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. In 36 plate appearances in 2015, Saunders hit .194 with zero home runs and three RBI.    

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Saunders' Name Emerges in Rumored 3-Team Trade

Monday, Feb. 22

According to a Monday report by Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the third team in the deal would be the Cincinnati Reds, who would send two-time All-Star outfielder Jay Bruce to the Blue Jays. 

However, Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com said talks between the teams have stalled because of a concern with Saunders' left knee after he had 60 percent of the meniscus removed last year following an injury.

Saunders, who is set to make $2.9 million in 2016, has a career slash line of .230/.301/.381 with 51 home runs and 185 RBI in parts of seven seasons with the Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners.

Bruce has been a much more productive player, per Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times:

The trade rumors come just three days after Ken Fidlin of the Toronto Sun reported Saunders is ready for a fresh start with the Blue Jays that includes the possibility of starting in left field after a near season-long injury in 2015.

“I was telling my wife that the day I’m not excited to get to spring training is the day I need to retire,” Saunders, a Canada native, said. “But this season is especially exciting because of what happened last year. It means a lot to me to get back out there and feel healthy and ready again. I feel like a kid again.”

If the 29-year-old goes to the Angels, he would be battling for the starting job with a trio of left fielders in projected starter Daniel Nava, Craig Gentry and Todd Cunningham.